The amount of solar energy & heat delivered to different latitudes on Earth is ultimately determined by:

• A. The spherical shape of the Earth and the angle that solar radiation hits the Earth.
• B. Earth’s slightly elliptical orbit around the Sun.
• C. The tilt of the Earth’s axis with respect to its orbit around the sun.
• D. Ocean currents.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the distribution of solar energy on Earth is influenced by several factors, primarily the spherical shape of the Earth and the angle at which solar radiation strikes the surface. This affects how much energy is received at different latitudes.
2. Consider the Earth's orbit around the Sun, which is slightly elliptical. This means that the distance between the Earth and the Sun changes slightly over the course of a year, affecting the intensity of solar energy received.
3. Examine the tilt of the Earth's axis, which is approximately 23.5 degrees. This tilt is responsible for the changing seasons and variations in solar energy received at different times of the year, as it affects the angle of sunlight hitting the Earth.
4. Analyze the role of ocean currents, which can redistribute heat across the planet. While they do not directly affect the amount of solar energy received, they play a significant role in moderating climate and temperature by moving warm and cold water around the globe.
5. Integrate these concepts to understand how they collectively influence the distribution of solar energy and heat across different latitudes, leading to variations in climate and weather patterns.